2022 Subaru WRX

The redesigned 2022 Subaru WRX is a performance four-door sedan inspired by rally cars. A turbo-4 provides the power and a standard all-wheel-drive ensures it goes to the pavement efficiently. The WRX competes against cars like the Hyundai Veloster N and Elantra N, Honda Civic Si, and Volkswagen GTI. Practical and sporty, the 2022 Subaru WRX is a fun car to drive every day.

The WRX gets a new design for 2022, and the even faster WRX STI awaits the same treatment. Additional changes include a larger turbo-4 engine, a revised CVT with quicker shifts, a new GT model with adaptive dampers, and more standard convenience and safety features.

Like it always has been, the 2022 Subaru WRX’s design is based on the Impreza compact sedan. The look is an evolution of the last design, with the notable exception of dark cladding around the wheel cutouts. The fender haunches are more defined, the rear diffuser is larger with more creases, and the front grille stretches wider under a prominent hood scoop. It’s also slightly longer, lower, and wider than the outgoing car.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Under the WRX’s hood is a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four-cylinder engine. Its 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque routes through either a standard six-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Per tradition, every WRX has an all-wheel drive. Those who opt for the automatic, which can also be controlled via paddle shifters on the steering wheel, can also select from three different drive-mode settings.

The auto-only GT trim also comes with adaptive dampers. A set of 17- or 18-inch wheels shod with summer performance tires are also available. We’ve driven the new WRX and appreciated its smoother ride and improved refinement. But most importantly, it’s still very entertaining to drive. Expect the forthcoming WRX STI to have more track-focused equipment and possibly as much as 400 horsepower.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Inside, the 2022 Subaru WRX looks a lot like other contemporary Subaru models, except that it’s dressed up with carbon-fiber-like accents and red contrast stitching. There’s a thick-rimmed, flat-bottomed steering wheel as well as a set of analog gauges. The top-tier GT trim comes with a heavily bolstered Recaro front seat covered in microsuede. The trunk can be accessed from inside the car via the 60/40 split-folding rear seat.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Every Subaru WRX comes with a vertically oriented 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While it relies primarily on touch inputs, it does have some physical controls for the climate system and stereo. An 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system is also available. Otherwise, WRX’s list of standard multimedia features includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2022 Subaru WRX is available with a variety of popular driver-assistance technology, but such equipment is only offered on models with automatic transmission. For more information about the 2022 Subaru WRX’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

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Full Specifications